At OHEPASA, we believe equality is the foundation of justice and inclusion is the path to peace. We strive to create spaces where every individual is respected, valued, and empowered to contribute. Together, we build communities that celebrate diversity and ensure opportunity for all.
ABOUT US
With a strong presence in Nigeria, OHEPASA renders quality service to humanity.
Organization for Health Education and Prevention against Sexual Abuse (OHEPASA) is a non-governmental organization founded in October 2023, dedicated to fighting against sexual abuse and gender-based violence. Due to the high prevalence of sexual violence and gender-based violence, the founder, Umoh Mary Charles, seeks to re-address the situation through the OHEPASA approach. Our core belief is that early education and awareness are powerful tools in safeguarding lives and shaping a healthier future—hence our guiding slogan: “Catch Them Young. “We focus on educating children, adolescents, and communities about the preventive mechanisms of gender-based violence, sexual harassment, rape, promoting gender equality, boundaries, and respect. Through interactive workshops, school outreaches, awareness campaigns, and community-based programs, we aim to equip young people with the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves and others from abuse. Sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), has serious health implications that can affect survivors physically, psychologically, and socially. These effects can be short-term or last a lifetime. The major health consequences of SGBV include Physical health impacts, psychological and emotional impacts, reproductive and maternal health consequences, social and behavioral impacts, and impact on children and adolescents. Our organization takes victim-centered action, striving to eradicate sexual exploitation, violation, abuse, and sexual harassment from and through our organization, and where every child and youth is empowered to grow up free from the threat of gender-based violence and sexual violence. Together, we can build a future where awareness leads to prevention and every voice is heard.
Who We Are?
What We Do?
Compassion in Action
Mary Charles Umoh – Founder/CEO, Organization for Health Education and Prevention Against Sexual Abuse (OHEPASA)
Mary Charles Umoh is the visionary Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Organization for Health Education and Prevention Against Sexual Abuse (OHEPASA), a non-governmental organization based in Enugu State, Nigeria. Through OHEPASA, she champions a transformative and multidisciplinary approach to the prevention and response to sexual abuse, harassment, rape, gender-based violence (GBV), and issues that continue to affect vulnerable populations across Nigeria and beyond.
At the core of her mission is the OHEPASA Approach: a holistic model that combines prevention, advocacy, survivor-centered support, empowerment programs, health education, and community engagement. Under her leadership, OHEPASA conducts awareness campaigns, organizes school and community outreaches. With further partnership and collaboration free medical care, counseling and psychosocial support are offered to survivors of sexual abuse.
Mary Charles Umoh is particularly passionate about addressing the root causes of gender inequality, which she identifies as a major contributor to abuse and disempowerment. She works tirelessly to empower women and children, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to reclaim their dignity and futures.
Through OHEPASA, Mary continues to lead impactful interventions, shaping a safer, more inclusive society where every individual, regardless of gender or circumstance, is protected and empowered.
Empowering Communities
At OHEPASA, we believe lasting change begins within empowered communities. Through education, skills training, and collaboration, we help individuals become agents of progress. Together, we build resilient communities capable of shaping their own future.
- Creating Awareness That Inspires Action
- Building Skills for Self-Reliance
- Fostering Partnerships for Impact
Equality and Inclusion
- Building a Culture of Respect
- Amplifying Every Voice
- Promoting Equal Opportunities
Board of Directors
Mary Charles Umoh
Founder/CEO
Adanna Divine-Adeola
Head of Sales and Regional Businesses in Total Health Trust (THT HMO), A Tangerine Company.
Ayerite Annette B.
Chief Physiotherapist, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital
Sandra Igwe-Ukwuorji
Business Strategist
KENNETH UGOCHUKWU NZEUKWU
BUSINESS ANALYSTS AND PROJECT MANAGER MADRID SPAIN
Dr Nkoyo Imelda Nubila
Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
What People Say About Us
Chidinma E., Student
Daniel O
“Volunteering with OHEPASA opened my heart and mind. Every outreach reminds me that compassion truly saves lives.”
Daniel O.,
Volunteer Facilitator
Mrs. Grace A
“The awareness program helped me talk to my children about sensitive issues in a safe way. I’m grateful for OHEPASA’s practical and caring approach.”
Anonymous
“Through OHEPASA’s support sessions, I found strength I thought I’d lost. They helped me heal, rebuild my confidence, and believe in myself again.”
Mrs. N. Okoro,
“OHEPASA’s professionalism and consistency have made them a trusted partner in promoting gender equality and community empowerment.”
Our Trusted Partners
#WE NEED YOU HELP
Please join us to help children around the world have a better life
Our organization truly believes that by working together, we can save more lives than ever before.
Useful links
Contact us
HEAD OFFICE
Block-D Daddy Onyema Drive, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus.
“OHEPASA’s visit changed how we think about respect and safety. I now know my voice matters, and I feel confident to speak up and help others do the same.”